The Singapore academic community is mourning the reported passing of Professor Leong Ching, a respected scholar, former journalist, and Vice Provost for Student Life at the National University of Singapore (NUS). She died on November 6, 2026, at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy of academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, mentorship, and public service.
News of her passing was shared by veteran diplomat Professor Tommy Koh, who paid tribute to her distinguished career and remembered her as a kind and generous friend.
Professor Leong was the National University of Singapore Society Professor in Behavioural Public Policy at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. Her research explored environmental behaviour, water policies, public sector reform, and governance, with particular attention to Asian societies.
Before pursuing an academic career, she spent approximately 13 years working in journalism with Singapore Press Holdings. Her passion for learning later led her to pursue advanced qualifications in philosophy, information technology, and journalism.
Throughout her time in academia, Professor Leong became known for questioning conventional ideas and encouraging students to approach complex public policy challenges from fresh perspectives. Her research publications and commentary addressed important issues involving sustainability, water governance, public administration, and societal change.
She also held significant leadership positions at NUS. She served as Dean of Students from January 2020 to January 2021 before taking on further responsibilities that eventually led to her appointment as Vice Provost for Student Life.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Professor Leong was remembered for her warmth, adventurous personality, and ability to build genuine friendships.
One former student recalled an unforgettable government study trip to Jakarta, during which they navigated a protest together to reach a lunch appointment near the barricaded gates of City Hall. The memory offered a glimpse of her adventurous spirit and the personal connections she maintained with those around her.
A former colleague also remembered her determination, intellectual accomplishments, and remarkable transition from journalism into academic and university leadership.
Senior Minister K. Shanmugam expressed sadness over her passing, recalling that Professor Leong had served as his first legislative assistant during his earlier parliamentary career.
Education Minister Desmond Lee also paid tribute to her commitment to students and her contributions to the university community.
Professor Leong’s career brought together journalism, research, teaching, and public service. Through her scholarship and leadership, she contributed to conversations about policy, governance, and the challenges facing societies across Asia.
As tributes continue to emerge, colleagues, former students, friends, and members of the wider Singapore academic community are remembering a scholar whose influence extended beyond the classroom and into public life. Her legacy will remain part of the many lives and institutions touched by her work.
